Is Japanese Knotweed Edible: Tips For Eating Japanese Knotweed Plants

Is Japanese Knotweed Edible: Tips For Eating Japanese Knotweed Plants

Japanese
knotweed has a reputation as an aggressive, noxious weed, and it’s
well-deserved because it can grow 3 feet (1 m.) every month, sending roots up to
10 feet (3 m.) into the earth. However, this plant isn’t all bad because
certain parts of it are edible. Let’s learn more about eating Japanese
knotweed.

About Eating Japanese Knotweed

If you’ve ever wondered, “is Japanese knotweed edible,” then
you’re not alone. There are actually a number of “weeds” that can be useful in
this way. The stems of Japanese knotweed have a tart, citrusy flavor, much akin
to rhubarb.
Better yet, it is a rich source of minerals, including potassium, phosphorus,
zinc and manganese, as well as vitamins A and C.

Before you gather an armload of Japanese knotweed, however, it’s
important to know that only certain parts are safe to eat, and only during
certain parts of the year. It’s best to gather shoots when they’re tender in
early spring, generally under about 10 inches (25 cm.) or less. If you wait too
long, the stems will be hard and woody.

You may be able to use the shoots a little later in the
season, but you’ll need to peel them first to remove the tough outer layer.

Note of caution:
Because it is considered a noxious weed, Japanese knotweed is often sprayed
with toxic chemicals. Before you harvest, be sure the plant hasn’t been treated
with herbicides. Also, avoid eating the plant raw, as it can cause skin
irritation in certain people – cooking Japanese knotweed is a better option. Harvest
the plant carefully. Remember, it’s highly invasive.

How to Cook Japanese Knotweed

So how can you eat Japanese knotweed? Basically, you can use
Japanese knotweed any way you would use rhubarb and the shoots are
interchangeable in recipes for rhubarb. If you have a favored recipe for
rhubarb pie or sauce, try substituting Japanese knotweed.

You can also incorporate Japanese knotweed into jams,
purees, wines, soups and ice cream, to name just a few. You can also combine
Japanese knotweed with other fruit such as apples or strawberries, which
complements the tart flavor.

Disclaimer:
The contents of this article is for educational and gardening purposes only.
Before using or ingesting ANY herb or plant for medicinal purposes or
otherwise, please consult a physician, medical herbalist or other suitable
professional for advice.